i guess this is an official announcement...or something.

Without making a big fuss over things, I hinted to IUPUI Jags personnel today that the upcoming soccer and basketball seasons will, most likely, be my final as PA announcer for the program.

Given my intentions to relocate to Las Vegas by as early as August 08, I think the distance would create a rather difficult commute.

Nothing is etched in stone and I certainly enjoy working for the program, but I have decided it's time to pursue other interests in the desert.

There's a good chance I could still be living in Indy well into 2009, depending on the Vegas job market, but after much consideration I felt it was probably best to step aside well before the 08-09 season to allow ample time for the SID to name a replacement.

It's not like my job is brain surgery or anything. They'll have no trouble filling the spot, I believe.

For me personally, though, I admit I'll miss being at the scorers table. I've always told people I get to watch basketball from the best seat in the house. And the camaraderie between myself and the guys at the table has always been great.

Also, it goes without saying that I'll miss the interaction with all the students: the athletes, cheerleaders, dancers and, last but not least, the Pep Band. I'm pushing 40 but always feel young when I'm around them.

So I'm going to savor as much of this season as possible. I'm going to enjoy every moment at every game. And I'll go to one more conference tournament to watch our teams compete.

I look forward to my future in Las Vegas, but I'll certainly miss the experience I've had as a PA announcer for the Jags.

Onward.